Is there anything more exciting than a new romantic relationship? It’s got it all—thrills, chills, adventure; it can pull you out of despair, bring you hope, and make you feel that your new love has the power to heal a thousand wounds.

Unfortunately, we all endure many unhealthy relationships while searching for a companion. The promise of true love, of feeling embraced and cherished, is a powerful wish. It can cause you to ignore red flags and problematic behavior, abandon your needs, and even push you to make reckless or destructive choices.

Don’t be alarmed. Recognizing an unhealthy relationship is a journey of self-discovery. In my weekly therapy groups, people often report that even when friends warned them or family expressed concerns—it wasn’t enough. The worst part: When they knew the relationship was unhealthy, they hung in there and hoped things would improve. But........

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